KATHMANDU: CPN-UML Senior Vice-Chair Ishwar Pokharel has said the country is in a state of serious uncertainty following the incidents of September 8 and 9, urging all political forces and state institutions to unite to protect democracy, nationalism and citizens’ rights.
In a statement issued Friday, Pokharel remarked that the Gen-Z movement and the violent incidents that followed had pushed the country into an abnormal situation, with rising concerns of constitutional encroachment and signs of regression. He stressed the need for responsible political conduct to safeguard stability and national unity.
Pokharel said the aspirations and anger of the new generation could not be ignored, adding that political parties must update their ideas and plans accordingly. He termed the violent activities of Bhadra 24 a “serious damage” and warned that attempts to grant immunity to those involved would weaken national confidence.
Calls for reassessment ahead of UML’s 11th General Convention
Pokharel highlighted that UML’s upcoming 11th General Convention (December 13 to 15) has drawn attention amid changing political dynamics. He argued that political, organizational and statute-related proposals passed earlier must be reviewed in light of recent events.
“After September 8 and 9, the political environment, the parties, the government and the parliament itself have changed,” he said, adding that previous conclusions can no longer guide the future. He called for new debates and fresh decisions at the convention.
His remarks indirectly challenge UML Chair KP Sharma Oli, who recently said the 11th Convention would not hold any discussions and would move directly to leadership selection, as all proposals were already finalized at the statute convention.
Push for mass mobilization
Pokharel urged party members to make UML’s upcoming mass mobilization programs successful, saying public pressure is needed to safeguard the constitution and ensure timely elections. He vowed that no external pressure would weaken UML’s commitment to nationalism, democracy, and citizens’ rights.
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